National Safe Boating Council Encourages Boaters to "Wear It!" While Celebrating Their Independence on the Water

WASHINGTON, DC--(Marketwire - June 29, 2010) - The July 4th holiday is one of the busiest boating weekends of the year, which is why the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC), is asking for all boaters to stay safe by remembering to "Wear It!" when celebrating Independence Day. According to the NSBC, routine and consistent life jacket wear is the number one step toward boating safety.

"Boating is a big part of Independence Day celebrations," said Virgil Chambers, executive director of the National Safe Boating Council. "There's no reason why everyone can't have fun on the water while also choosing to always wear a life jacket. The Fourth of July weekend may be one of the only days some people get on a boat the entire summer, and it's even more important that every boat operator remembers to share the 'Wear It!' message."

Last year, approximately 90 percent of recreational boating drowning victims weren't wearing a life jacket. Fortunately, life jacket wear is easy and convenient with a range of today's comfortable, stylish styles.

"Many people aren't aware that the bulky, uncomfortable styles of the past have been replaced by lightweight options for any boating activity," Chambers said. "Inflatable life jackets are some of the most compact and easy to use options available and are just as safe as the more traditional styles. It's especially important for novice boaters who are planning to take to the water this Independence Day holiday to stay safe and 'Wear It!'"

Life jacket wear by every boater is the leading goal of the North American Safe Boating Campaign, which officially kicks off with National Safe Boating Week (May 22 - 28) and continues throughout the summer boating season. The North American Safe Boating Campaign unites the efforts of a wide variety of boating safety advocates, including the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA), the Canadian Safe Boating Council and the many members of the National Safe Boating Council. The campaign is produced under a grant from the Sports Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, administered by the U.S. Coast Guard.

About the National Safe Boating Council

The National Safe Boating Council represents over 330 U.S. and Canadian organizations committed to reducing boating accidents and enhancing the boating experience. Visit www.SafeBoatingCampaign.com for campaign materials and additional safe boating resources.

Contact Information: Media Contacts: Dace de la Foret (614) 224-8114 Technical Contact: Rachel Burkholder (703) 361-4294